Auckland is set to host some of world football’s biggest stars this winter with the announcement of the New Zealand International Football Festival, bringing global football to Aotearoa at Eden Park, proudly supported by the New Zealand Government’s Events Attraction Package and Auckland Council Events.
The festival will feature a blockbuster match, kicking off with iconic English club Tottenham Hotspur taking on Auckland FC on Sunday 26 July at Eden Park. The match will see the English football giants face New Zealand’s newest A Leagues club in what promises to be a landmark occasion for the local game.
Tottenham Hotspur are a truly massive global presence, including one of the largest digital fanbases in world football, with a combined following of approximately 68 million fans across its key platforms worldwide and their involvement instantly elevates the New Zealand International Football Festival along with Auckland and New Zealand onto the world stage.
The New Zealand International Football Festival celebrates football’s unique power to bring communities together, inspire the next generation, and deliver world-class sporting experiences. The festival will feature a week of activity across Auckland, including open training sessions and corporate events to complement the on-field action, with more exciting fan experiences set to be announced.
With the immense global following of Tottenham Hotspur, alongside the rapid growth of Auckland FC, strong demand is expected, with fans encouraged to secure tickets early.
Television New Zealand (TVNZ) will serve as the official broadcaster of the New Zealand International Football Festival, delivering live coverage to audiences nationwide. The partnership reinforces TVNZ’s role in bringing major sporting moments to Kiwi viewers, with comprehensive coverage of the fixture from kickoff to final whistle.
Match 1: Tottenham Hotspur v Auckland F.C, Sun 26 July, Eden Park
Open Training: Tottenham Hotspur, Sat 25 July, EdenPark
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston said: “This is an outstanding opportunity for fans and helps build the momentum of football in New Zealand as our most popular team participation sport,” Louise Upston says.
“It’s also a win for our tourism industry as we expect international visitors to stay on and explore the many attractions our beautiful country has to offer.
“A showcase like this gives New Zealand an economic boost by supporting hospitality and tourism businesses, creating more jobs and strengthening our economy.
“Given the international appeal of premier league football teams, there’ll also be a global broadcast in place, showcasing New Zealand as a world-class destination for sport, culture and entertainment,” Louise Upston says.
Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown said: “Auckland Council Events is proud to support the New Zealand International Football Festival and bring this exciting event to our city.
With our passionate sports fans, the energy around Auckland FC and a strong track record of hosting major events, Auckland is a great place to bring people together through football.
We’re looking forward to welcoming fans from across the city, New Zealand and around the world.”
Rachael Carroll, TEG Sport Managing Director said: “The New Zealand International Football Festival is launching in Auckland for the very first time, bringing a premier international football experience to fans.” The excitement goes beyond the pitch, with a confirmed Spurs Open Training session and a full week of additional events designed to bring world-class football and experiences directly to fans.
Even more events will be revealed in the coming weeks, adding to what promises to be a truly unique celebration of the beautiful game.”
Tottenham Hotspur Club Ambassador Ledley King said: “We are excited to be visiting New Zealand for just the second time in our history. The match against Auckland FC will provide a tough test ahead of the new season and a unique opportunity for the Men’s First-Team to play in a new environment and at an incredible venue in Eden Park.
“Our time in Auckland will give us the opportunity to engage with our incredible fanbase in the city, deliver football clinics for young people and celebrate local culture.”
Nick Becker, CEO Auckland FC said: “This is a huge occasion for the club, for football in this country, and most importantly for our fans,” says Auckland FC CEO, Nick Becker.
“We haven’t had a club of this size in New Zealand for over 10 years. Now clubs like Tottenham are seeing what we’re doing over here, the growth of football and our passionate fanbase and wanting to get involved.”
“It is going to be a fantastic event for Auckland and a great chance for some of our squad to really test themselves against top-class players,” added Becker.
Ticketing Information:
Tickets for the New Zealand International Football Festival will go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, 7 April at 12pm via Ticketek New Zealand.
In addition to general admission tickets, a suite of New Zealand International Football Festival premium experiences will also be available, offering unparalleled access and elevated event-day hospitality. These include:
- Premium Hospitality Packages across all fixtures, featuring exceptional seating, curated dining, premium beverages, and exclusive match-day inclusions.
- Tottenham Hotspur Open Training Session, offering fans rare behind-the-scenes access to watch world-class teams prepare on the training pitch. Saturday 25 July, tickets $15 via Ticketek.
These experiences provide fans and partners with unique opportunities to engage more closely with the clubs, players, and atmosphere of the New Zealand International Football Festival.
ANZ Visa cardholders receive exclusive early access to tickets for Tottenham Hotspur v Auckland F.C at Eden Park, with a dedicated pre-sale opening on 1 April for one day only. Eligible customers can purchase tickets using their ANZ Visa debit or credit card. Terms and conditions apply.
Football Fans can also sign up now to secure early access to the pre sale on 2 April via www.tegsport.com.au
